About medicines
The different types of medicines and how they are classified.
What we do
How we make sure medicines are as safe and effective as possible.
Access to medicines
How you can access medicines and how we manage shortages.
Cost of medicines
How we keep medicines affordable for Australians.
Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme
The Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) subsidises a large number of medicines to keep their cost down for Australians.
Biosimilar medicines
Some pharmaceutical companies make medicines that are very similar to existing biological medicines. These are known as biosimilar medicines. We have resources available to help you understand and have confidence in biosimilar medicines.
Medicines Line
1300 633 424
Contact Medicines Line on 1300 MEDICINE for information on prescription, over-the-counter and other medicines (including complementary medicines). Calls are answered by registered pharmacists. The service is available Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm AEST (excluding NSW public holidays).
Latest resources
Latest resources
COVID-19 National Health Plan – prescriptions via telehealth – a guide for pharmacists
Electronic prescribing was fast-tracked as part of the National Health Plan for coronavirus (COVID-19). This guide for pharmacists outlines arrangements available that will help patients receive medicines via telehealth services.
COVID-19 National Health Plan – prescriptions via telehealth – a guide for prescribers
Electronic prescribing has been fast-tracked as part of the National Health Plan for coronavirus (COVID-19). This guide for prescribers outlines the temporary arrangements available now that will help patients receive medicines via telehealth services.
Medicines cost less on the PBS
This PBS poster contains information about the recent PBS Co-Payment reduction.
Changes to the PBS – Information sheet for pharmacists and medical practitioners
This fact sheet for pharmacists and medical practitioners contains information about recent changes to the PBS.